Authentically, Me: Human Billboards & Sundance Night #1

My endeavor to complete a month-long writing challenge was a flop. Anytime I feel obligated or am required to complete a task (i.e. homework) my initial pep quickly dissipates; which either speaks to my spontaneous creativity or lack of discipline. Oh well. Life goes on.

Today a co-worker and I got into a discussion about human billboards. You know, the (sad) people in faded Lady Liberty costumes twirling signs outside of decrepit strip malls.

Our conversation sparked my intrigue, so naturally I turned to the Internets. According to Wikipedia: The practice began in 19th century London, where advertising posters became a subject to a tax and competition for wall space became fierce. Besides holding signs, some human billboards would wear sandwich boards. Charles Dickens described these advertisers as "a piece of human flesh between two slices of past board." Ew.

And there you have it. The efficacy of human billboards isn't concrete but it is guaranteed to brighten your day.

In other news, last night marked our first film of Sundance 2016!

SFF 2016 crew! So excited I forgot to open my eyes.

Director Rob Burnett, pre-screening

"The Fundamentals of Caring"

Having suffered a tragedy, Ben becomes a caregiver to earn money. His first client, Trevor, is a hilarious 18-year-old with muscular dystrophy. One paralyzed emotionally, one paralyzed physically, Ben and Trevor hit the road on a trip into the western states. The folks they collect along the way will help them test their skills for surviving outside their calculated existence. Together, they come to understand the importance of hope and the necessity of true friendship.